In a remarkable achievement, Professor Season Hoard has been awarded the prestigious Yang “Wendy” Liu Award for her outstanding contributions to making U.S. politics accessible to international students. This accolade recognizes her dedication and innovative approach to political science education.
The award was presented following a nomination from Anna Ivanovaa doctoral candidate who has collaborated with Hoard on various policy reports for government agencies, nonprofits, and other organizations over the past three summers. Ivanova praised Hoard’s leadership and the diverse, effective research teams she has built on campus.
Building Bridges in Political Science Education
Professor Hoard completed her master’s and doctorate at Washington State University (WSU) and has since served as a professor in both the Division of Governmental Studies and Services (DGSS) and the School of Politics, Philosophy, and Public Affairs. Her work has been instrumental in creating an inclusive environment where students from different countries and backgrounds can collaborate on real-world projects.
Hoard expressed her gratitude for the award, emphasizing that it is a recognition of her entire team’s efforts, particularly the faculty and staff in the DGSS. She humbly acknowledged that there are many others who deserve such recognition and highlighted her commitment to helping international students navigate the complexities of U.S. politics.
The Legacy of Yang “Wendy” Liu
The Yang “Wendy” Liu Award honors the memory of Yang “Wendy” Liua former WSU International Programs Intensive American Language Center instructor who dedicated nearly a decade to teaching English at WSU. Liu passed away in 2019 due to complications from cancer but left a lasting legacy of increasing educational access for international students.
Hoard and her team at DGSS have been proactive in securing funding to hire students on campus, particularly international students who face unique challenges in finding employment that aligns with their visa requirements. Their work encompasses a variety of research and writing methods, providing students with valuable professional development opportunities. Collaborative projects on policy issues such as homelessness and jail diversion allow students to work across different research topics and gain practical experience in data gathering.
Global Perspectives in Political Science
Hoard’s teaching approach incorporates a globalized view, offering examples of governmental and electoral processes from various countries. By discussing multi-party systems in Europe, balloting in South Africa, and parliamentary systems, she sparks interest and encourages questions among her students. This inclusive approach has been well-received by both international and domestic students, fostering a deeper understanding of global politics.
Ivanova highlighted the collaborative environment fostered by Hoard in DGSS, where language has never been a barrier. She described Hoard as an encouraging, generous, and impactful mentor who leaves a lasting positive impression on everyone who works with her.
The Yang “Wendy” Liu Award is an annual recognition, with faculty and staff eligible for nomination. Applications for the award are due by April each year. Last year, Michael Allena professor of astronomy, was the recipient of this prestigious honor.
